The quasi-official preopening ceremony took place Monday when Big Tex hit is mark for the 60th year. That is dedication to the job, and the man still hasn’t received a gold watch.

The big man again wears his 75-gallon cowboy hat and over-sized — well, not for him — boots, this year it’s Twisted X boots.

He also sports his traditional — traditional as long as the promotions contract remains in force— Dickie’s Western wear, this year selected by popular Facebook vote because everything now must be selected by popular Facebook vote.

After 59 years of playing the same part, BigTex told his agent he wanted to expand his role and experiment with his character so fair officials gave him a different line with which to greet fairgoers.

OK, no they didn’t. Big Tex will still boom out, "Howdy, folks," because there are some things you just don’t mess with in Texas.